This episode of the Anglotopia podcast delves into the rich history of Thornbury Castle, a Tudor castle in Gloucestershire, with resident historian Tony Cherry. The conversation explores the castle’s significance, its connection to historical figures like Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, and the dramatic tales of the Stafford family. Listeners will learn about the castle’s architectural features, its evolution over the centuries, and the luxurious experience it offers today. The episode concludes with a discussion of the castle’s legends and the tranquil beauty of its gardens. This is the first part of a special two-part podcast, with the next episode coming next week.

Links

• Thornbury Castle Hotel
• Thornbury Castle History

Takeaways

• Thornbury Castle is steeped in Tudor history.
• Edward Stafford, the 3rd Duke of Buckingham, was a significant historical figure.
• The castle has connections to Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn.
• The Stafford family faced numerous beheadings throughout Tudor history.
• Thornbury Castle evolved from a royal castle to a luxurious hotel.
• The castle reflects the lifestyle and power dynamics of the English nobility.
• Tony Cherry became a historian after early retirement from finance.
• The castle’s architecture showcases both fortification and luxury.
• Thornbury Castle has hidden secrets and archaeological finds.
• The gardens of Thornbury Castle have won prestigious awards.

Sound Bites “It’s steeped in Tudor history.” “He was beheaded in 1521.” “It became a royal castle.”   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Thornbury Castle 01:55 The Rich History of Thornbury Castle 05:35 The Duke of Buckingham’s Downfall 09:09 The Tudor Era and Its Impact 15:51 Edward Stafford’s Personality and Influence 26:54 The Castle’s Evolution Through Time 31:45 Legends and Secrets of Thornbury Castle 35:41 Final Thoughts and Invitation to Visit